ESPN’s 2026 Top NFL Draft Prospects by Position: Four Tigers Among the Elite
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the anticipation surrounding this class is growing, especially with the talent emerging from college football programs across the country. Among the top prospects, several stand out as potential future stars in the NFL. ESPN recently released its list of top draft prospects by position for the 2026 class, and notable among them are four players from the Auburn Tigers program. These Tigers are being hailed as among the best in their respective positions, showcasing Auburn’s continued reputation for developing NFL talent.
1. Auburn Tigers Dominating the Draft Rankings
Auburn University has long been a hub for producing NFL talent, and the 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to be no different. With four Tigers listed among ESPN’s top prospects, the program is once again proving that it can cultivate elite-level players. Whether it’s the speed and skill of the wide receivers, the power and finesse of defensive players, or the leadership qualities demonstrated by their quarterbacks, Auburn’s athletes are well-represented and poised to make an impact in the professional league.
2. Top Auburn NFL Draft Prospect: Defensive Tackle – Jason Smith
One of the most talked-about names on ESPN’s list is defensive tackle Jason Smith. Coming into 2026, Smith is considered one of the top prospects at his position and one of the most dominant players in college football. Standing at 6’5″ and weighing 310 pounds, Smith combines size, strength, and quickness in a way that few other players can match.
Smith has been a disruptive force on the Auburn defensive line, regularly drawing double teams and creating opportunities for his teammates. His ability to collapse the pocket from the interior, while also providing a consistent push against the run, makes him a complete player. Scouts have noted his high motor and his ability to close on the quarterback, traits that make him an ideal candidate for an NFL defense.
In terms of his skills, Smith has excellent hand technique, using a variety of moves to disengage from blockers. His ability to penetrate the line of scrimmage and create pressure on quarterbacks is one of the things that sets him apart from other prospects. As a player who can be a cornerstone of a defensive front, Smith’s projected NFL future is bright.
3. Auburn Quarterback – Brock Jameson: A Rising Star
Another Auburn player to make ESPN’s list is quarterback Brock Jameson. Jameson has been the leader of the Tigers’ offense for the past two seasons and is considered one of the top quarterback prospects heading into the 2026 draft. At 6’4″ and 220 pounds, Jameson has the prototypical size and arm strength that NFL teams covet.
What stands out most about Jameson is his poise under pressure. He has shown the ability to lead his team in high-stakes situations, and his decision-making has improved dramatically over the past year. Jameson has the rare combination of arm strength, mobility, and accuracy, allowing him to make all the throws necessary to succeed at the NFL level.
Despite facing tough SEC defenses, Jameson has continued to improve and put up impressive stats, including a high touchdown-to-interception ratio and significant yardage through the air. NFL scouts have been impressed by his mechanics, footwork, and ability to read defenses. As a player who has already displayed leadership qualities and a strong football IQ, Jameson is expected to be one of the top quarterbacks selected in the 2026 draft.
4. Wide Receiver – Elijah Williams: Speed and Agility Personified
Elijah Williams, the wide receiver from Auburn, has been turning heads with his explosive athleticism and playmaking ability. With a 40-yard dash time that ranks among the best in the nation, Williams is considered one of the fastest and most dangerous receivers in college football. His combination of speed, route-running ability, and hands makes him a nightmare for opposing defenders.
Standing at 6’0″ and weighing 195 pounds, Williams is a dynamic playmaker who can stretch the field vertically and is dangerous in the open field. He has the ability to burn defenders on deep routes and can turn short receptions into long gains with his agility and vision after the catch. His quickness and ability to separate from defensive backs give him an edge over many of the other top wide receivers in this class.
In addition to his deep-threat potential, Williams has shown improvement in his ability to run precise routes and win contested catches. His ability to make plays in big moments, especially in high-pressure games, has earned him the respect of scouts. As one of the most complete wide receivers in the 2026 class, Williams has the potential to be an immediate contributor in the NFL.
5. Offensive Tackle – David Harris: Protecting the Quarterback’s Blindside
David Harris, an offensive tackle from Auburn, rounds out the group of Tigers featured on ESPN’s list of top prospects for the 2026 draft. Harris, a 6’6″, 320-pound lineman, is a cornerstone of Auburn’s offensive line and one of the top tackle prospects for the upcoming draft. His ability to protect the quarterback’s blindside and create running lanes has made him a standout player in the SEC.
Harris has developed into one of the most reliable tackles in college football, with scouts praising his technique, footwork, and strength. He has excelled in both pass protection and run blocking, showcasing his versatility and ability to dominate in multiple phases of the game. His long arms, quick feet, and strength at the point of attack make him a difficult matchup for any defensive lineman.
One of Harris’ most impressive traits is his consistency. He rarely gives up pressures or sacks and is a key component of Auburn’s offensive success. His ability to protect the quarterback and clear the way for running backs has drawn comparisons to some of the best tackles in recent NFL drafts. As a potential franchise left tackle, Harris is expected to be a high first-round pick in 2026.
6. The Auburn Tigers’ Continued Success in the NFL Draft
The presence of four Auburn Tigers among the top NFL draft prospects for 2026 speaks to the continued success of the Tigers’ football program. These athletes are not only showcasing their skills on the field, but they are also exemplifying the discipline, leadership, and work ethic instilled in them during their time at Auburn.
For Auburn fans, this list provides hope for the future, as the Tigers are once again positioned to have a strong presence in the NFL. With these top prospects expected to hear their names called early in the 2026 draft, Auburn’s legacy as a top producer of NFL talent remains intact. As the draft draws nearer, all eyes will be on these Tigers as they make the leap to the professional ranks.
